SIPHELELE NKETO
VUYELWA Gxabatshe, who recently turned 101 years old at her home in Phuka, EmaXesibeni (Mount Ayliff), shared her secrets of prolonged existence that include maintaining a healthy diet, prioritising sleep, nurturing strong social connections and staying active.
The elderly woman who has three children said her personal approaches to health have been demanding but manageable. She mentioned the power of avoiding unnecessary stress and difficulty in life that made her feel so much more relaxed.
She said that not drinking alcohol and refraining from tobacco use also contributed to her long life.
She further mentioned that she grew up at a time when it was hard to access education and other luxuries that exist currently.
“The only thing that was accessible during our time was church. Having a church in our village made me understand God and inculcated respect for other people,” she said.
Gxabatshe said she stopped going to church because she struggles to walk properly due to old age. Although she can’t go to the local church, she said she still participates in some church activities.
The community of Phuka with local councillor Monwabisi Tuku celebrated Gxabatshe’s birthday on June 23 to show love and appreciate her existence. They showered her with gifts.
Tuku said the woman is the oldest person in the municipal ward: “This elderly woman deserves to be loved and taken care of.”
Gxabatshe currently lives with her grandchild Notlahla Zungula, while Nolizwi Matiyose, another grandchild, often visits to ensure the well-being of her grandmother.
“My grandmother is such a blessing in the family. She taught us so many things including self-assurance and independence,” said Matiyose.
She added that the old woman loves cleanliness.
